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Made of repeating pattern of collagen molecules
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Gaps and overlapping region between molecules are specific
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Gaps are where the molecules may be bound (cross-linked) together
- Collagen Structure
Collagen Molecule:
- Molecules consist of three helical amino acid chains with a characteristic Gly-X-Y repeat unit
- These helical chains intertwine to form a super helix
- Molecules have non-helical ends
- The non-helical regions form cross-links with other collagen molecules
Collagen Fibrils:
Collagen Fibers:
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Fiber bundles are arranged specific to tissue function
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In skin, they lend structural support
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Fibers are made of smaller units called fibrils
